STEPHEN HAMMOND STATEMENT ON REMEMBERENCE DAY !
Saturday, 19 May 2012
I was one of the first MPs to speak about the plight of the Tamil citizens and to urge recognition of their plight.
I have worked with local Tamils in Wimbledon and Kingston to raise awareness of the killings and persecution; and support local events
I have also worked with British Tamil Forum and British Tamil Conservatives.
I have also visited the north of Sri Lanka in 2008 and 2010.
It is indeed right that the Tamil People mark the anniversary of the atrocity which saw 40000 Tamil civilians killed. The enormity of the loss of life and the grief of so many was overwhelming.
There are some who might say Sri Lanka is the other side of the world and there is little we can do. But we should not turn our backs. We must ensure that;
Persecution of the Tamils must stop
Civil administration and full political rights must be restored
The demining process must be completed as soon as possible so everyone can return to their homes
The freedom of expression, movement and assembly must be allowed freely and fairly without fear
I believe Sri Lanka must implement the recommendations of the "Lessons Learnt and Reconciliation Commission" quickly and fully.
I wish your vigil, peace and success
Stephen Hammond
